The determination and talent of a learner of the Dibotswa High School in the Dithakong village in Kuruman, has earned him recognition as a promising young innovator in the Northern Cape.
Recently, Kalafo Matsebe (18) was awarded a bronze medal at the 45th Eskom Expo International Science Fair (ISF) held at the Emperors Palace Convention Centre in Kempton Park from 6 to 10 October.
Apart from his bronze medal, Kalafo is one of eight young scientists who were awarded the Durban University of Technology’s Young Innovator Award. Winners received tablet computers and entry into a 12-month mentorship and incubation support programme valued at R15 000.
“To win an award was very exciting and a very good moment. It left a feeling of greatness and also motivates me to keep going,” he said.
The ISF brought together hundreds of top young scientists from South Africa and around the world. Learners could showcased groundbreaking research and inventive projects across a wide range of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and innovation fields.
For Kalefo, who represented the Kalahari Region, his adventure to the ISF began with a deep-rooted fascination for how things work.
“What drew me to Eskom Expo is the love and the ability I have when it comes to working with electronics,” he said. His research project, “Organ Transport Container”, reflected his natural talent for problem-solving and creativity in building and understanding electronic systems.
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He said the Eskom Expo experience has had a profound impact on how he views science and perseverance.
“Eskom Expo has given me motivation to keep on doing what you believe you can do. Even when you fall, you must pick yourself up and not give up. It has taught me to never let any circumstances define my life,” he said.
He hopes to inspire other young scientists from rural areas like his own. “Even when there are challenges that set you back, you should never stop dreaming. Make the impossible possible, because it is only you who can make that difference,” he said.
